42. Miss Wardasked the Minister of Health when the review promised by the Minister of Education in respect of excluded nurses and hospital officers will be begun, in view of the fact that they are not covered by the Pensions (Increase) Bill.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodAfter careful consideration it has been decided that the provision made in the Pensions (Increase) Bill for retired nurses and hospital officers should not be further extended.
Miss WardIn view of the fact that at the time my right hon. Friend gave the undertaking these people were excluded by the Money Resolution, does he not think that it was wrong to raise people's hopes that there would be a reconsideration? Is he aware that I consider that the Government are committed in this matter and that I do not like being told that things will be inquired into when it is not possible to do so under the Money Resolution?
§ Mr. MacleodIt was certainly possible at the time to inquire, and such an inquiry took place. I met a deputation and considered carefully and sympathetically the case that they made, but I could not recommend to the Government the inclusion of these additional classes in the Bill.
Miss WardIs my right hon. Friend aware that in the Standing Committee the Amendment was ruled out of order because it was outside the terms of the Money Resolution? That is what I am complaining about.